The Editor, Sir:

I was very disappointed reading your editorial today (February 14). While I do agree with your basic premise that the government needed to do more, I am amazed that you excluded the citizen's responsibility in all this.

Indeed, Mr. Rattray and his HOPE organisation are, in my opinion, fulfilling the role of 'responsible citizen' as I learned it from Civics for Young Jamaicans.

As one who is involved from the diaspora with the Trelawny Home Coming during the World Cup activities, in a recent visit in January, I have been exhorting the Member of Parliament, mayor and councillors to take the lead in getting volunteers to assist in the clean-up of Falmouth and the surrounding areas.

Not government's fault

The fact that HOPE is embarrassed, should not be them alone, but the entire Jamaican community, businesses, schools and local organisations among the many. Why? Because a clean and friendly Jamaica is not going to be the benefit of the government only, but the entire Jamaica and its citizens in the long term.

Mr. Editor, it is not the government who make the streets dirty and block drains; indeed it is our uncivic-minded citizens. We who have travelled and lived elsewhere are tired of the excuses for our fellow Jamaicans who lack civic pride. I am very much aware like you, Sir, that the government (local and central) provides regular garbage pick-ups in most of the towns.

'A fi wi yard!'

Indeed in Falmouth, I observed that they pick up twice weekly. Yet many times, after the truck pased, I see garbage in front of homes, I see the garbage that is thrown in drains by citizens, I see in front of homes and business weed that is as high as the homeowners. Wake up - "A fi wi yard!"

My fellow Jamaicans, we are Jamaica, we are the Government, no matter who we put in charge. It boils down to us as Jamaicans to take responsibility.

Finally, it always amazes me, Mr. Editor, when Jamaicans live abroad, we adapt, keep we sidewalk nice and clean, no litter our streets, even clean away drainage and make sure our garbage is always secure and out on time on the scheduled days of pick-up.

I applaud HOPE and Mr. Rattray and only 'hope' that many more will follow this laudable gesture. Looking forward for a grand time when I come for Cricket World Cup!

I am, etc.,

PATRICK A BECKFORD

pbeckf01@yahoo.com

Somerset, N.J. U.S.A.